Chad: Meningitis outbreak (Situation as of 25 March , 2012)

A total of 1 708 cases and 88 deaths (CFR: 5%) reported, seven districts experiencing meningitis epidemic

Event description

The Ministry of Health in Chad has reported an outbreak of meningococcal meningitis which started in the 2nd week of January 2012. As of 25 March 2012, a total of 1 708 cases and 88 deaths have been reported from 45 districts. The following 7 districts: Oumhadjer, Massakory, Lere, Amdam, Aboudea, Amtiman and Donamanga have crossed the epidemic threshold and Bebeto, Koumra and Moissala crossed the alert threshold.

Laboratory results confirmed Neisseria meningitis A as the dominant pathogen in all the districts which crossed the epidemic and alert threshold.

Actions taken

WHO and partners are supporting the Ministry of Health in conducting reactive vaccination, strengthening laboratory capacity, case management, population sensitization and training of health workers. Regular response coordination meetings are ongoing which has facilitated better collaboration among partners in the affected areas.

 Chad: Meningitis outbreak (Situation as of 25 March , 2012) (358.38 kB)

Disease Surveillance and Response Programme, Disease Prevention and Control Cluster, Regional Office for Africa Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it